Project Manager Review

My job entails the day to day managing of an automation project, liaising with the supplier ensuring that the project is parallel with the plan, budget and quality requirements. Whilst regularly updating the Programme and Business (in this case Robotics programme and Personal Lines Business area) with the progress of the project, along with any risks that may affect the programme/business. I have regular discussions with my project team confirming if there are any blockers, if there are, I work on removing or mitigating them as best as possible; it’s important to have regular contact with my team members so I can help them as efficiently and effectively as possible.

I have developed a wide range of skills whilst on my apprenticeship- whether it's soft skills or professional skills. I'd say that professional skills are much easier to pick up and learn, as I have supportive colleagues around me that show me the correct way of doing something. There is also an array of support on the internet and in textbooks. However, soft skills you can't just learn over night; it takes practice and you need to be put in certain situations to learn. Speech and facilitation skills are harder to pick up, but I feel like I've come along way!!

The biggest thing gained through my apprenticeship has defiantly got to be working with real project professionals who are able to support me on my apprentice journey; whether it’s a phone call, face to face or email. Along with this, the experience gained whilst on this apprenticeship is priceless and will help embed the skills I learn, in real world situations. Instead of just being taught something in a classroom environment and not being able to put it into practice is a realistic situation. Many skills can be lost if they’re not put into practice! I love the programme!

I feel so fortunate to have the opportunity to carry out a Project Management apprenticeship, it's not what I expected at all; in fact it's better! The programme covers many areas that helps me gain a broad understanding of the project world, from risk management skills to stakeholder management. The structure of the programme works well too, starting off on the fundamentals of project management, then leading onto more advanced topics such as risk management.

I'm fortunate enough to have a pool of supportive people around me, whether it's a phone call, email conversation or a face to face conversation. Also, i have a specific mentor who I have regular meetings with, he helps me with my development whether it's Robotics related or if I have general questions around the profession. I created a development plan and he helped me shape and define it to be better value.

My training provider is very average, I've had several tutors over 15 months which isn't great; as soon as you begin to build a solid relationship with one they're soon out the door. However, they now hold regular Webinars and interactive sessions, which is great. I suppose there are advantages and disadvantages of my training provider.

I embed what I learn on the online portal in my day to day job frequently. Without learning the relevant topics on Babington online, I would not be able to carry out some tasks. So therefore, I do think the qualification does help me within my role; especially some more technical part of the course.

I'm involved in all sorts of extra-curricular activities including being a YAAN ambassador encouraging school kids to look at apprenticeships, making people aware that university isn't the only option! I've gone to apprentice career fairs along with taking part in other apprenticeship events. Furthermore, I'm part of the APM ambassador committee this is specific to project professionals, although I haven't done much with APM yet i've been to a wide range of APM events and am in frequent contact with them.

Yes

Overall, DLG is the perfect place to start your career, with an abundance of career progression options, along with a strong set of company values which embed into the culture of the company. With a variety of people working at DLG it’s a very inclusive company where everybody is welcome. It’s a truly amazing place to work and I’m happy to come into work every day.

If you are applying for an apprenticeship scheme at DLG I’d recommend just going for it, be yourself and don’t let anybody hold you back. If you truly want an apprenticeship, you’ll try your hardest to achieve that goal. Most importantly don’t be afraid to stand out and think outside the box; what makes you different others? There are many resources available on the internet that can give you a feel of what apprenticeships are like at DLG, there’s a site called career-inspiration.com where you can ask apprenticeships questions about the specific job roles, or just general questions. Along with a whole host of recruitment events that DLG attend, with real colleagues willing to answer the questions you have.